2009 Honda Fit – The Fit Get Even Fitter
By Kelly Foss www.car-data.com
With the dramatic rise in fuel prices, the sub compact class of vehicles has become extremelypopular. To keep the heat on the competition, Honda is now introducing a totally new and improved2009 Fit.
The 2008 model was very good and was selling like gang busters, but the 2009 is even better.The 08 was long on function, but short on style. The new
09 model is totally restyled and now possesses some WOW styling. Fit continues with 2 trimlevels, the Base model and the Sport, which offers a higher level of equipment and options.
This vehicle is designed to yield lots of useful interior space from a pretty small car. TheSuper Forward Aero Form body design moves the windshield forward for better visibility and morespace. The 2nd row Magic Seat folds flat producing an uninterrupted cargo area with a one buttonmotion. The seat bottoms also fold up parallel with the seat backs giving a large and tall storagespace going from side to side in the vehicle. The rear doors open almost 90 degrees foroutstanding access. The rear cargo lift-over height has also been lowered allowing easier cargoloading.
The Fit’s interior is not only comfortable and efficient, but it’s also interesting and engaging. No boring flat gray door panels here. The seats have been redesigned to improve comfort.Standard equipment is generous for this price and class of car, and includes air condition, powerwindows, mirrors and door locks. A tilt and telescoping steering wheel as well as a driver’s footrest are also standard. The 160 watt CD audio system with auxiliary inputs is standard. Anavigation system with voice command, upgraded audio and USB inputs is available on the Sport model.
The body structure has been strengthened by adding more high strength steel and is now morerigid. This pays dividends in both crash safety and precise handling. The Fit has front, side andside curtain airbags standard plus ABS anti lock brakes and Electronic Brake Force Distribution.You can also get stability control on the Fit Sport model.
The Fit is powered by an improved 1.5 liter 4 cylinder engine. It produces
117 horsepower and is offered with either a 5 speed manual or a 5 speed automatic transmission.The automatic has more leisurely gearing so not only is it easier to live with in the city but italso gets better fuel economy because the engine runs at lower rpm’s. If you can afford the extra$800, get the automatic. It has an EPA highway economy rating of as much as
35 miles per gallon.
I’ve driven all the sub compacts in this past year and what is different about the Fit is itslevel of refinement. It is an inexpensive, high quality, reliable premium subcompact with superbresale value. What’s more, it’s fun to drive.
